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Advice on Switching to Premium Fuels

 

Choosing the right fuel for your vehicle is more important than ever, especially with the growing variety of options at the pump. Premium fuels like Sunoco’s 94 Octane are designed to meet the demands of modern engines, offering benefits that go beyond just powering your car. Whether you drive a high-performance vehicle or simply want to maintain your engine’s health, understanding the advantages of premium fuel can help you make a confident decision.

This guide explores why premium fuel matters, when to use it, and how it can enhance your vehicle's performance and longevity. With the right information, you can fuel your car with confidence and ensure it operates at its best.

 

Why Choose Premium Fuel?

More drivers across the U.S. are turning to premium fuel for their vehicles, and it’s not just about luxury. According to recent data from the U.S. Department of Energy, the percentage of new vehicle models requiring or recommending premium fuel has risen significantly over the last few decades, up to 47% in 2023 from just 7% in 1985. This shows a growing trend that nearly half of all new cars perform best with premium gasoline.

This shift isn’t just about following trends—it reflects a growing recognition of premium fuel's benefits to vehicle longevity and overall efficiency.

Premium fuel isn't just any fuel—it's designed for specific types of vehicles that demand more from their engines. High-performance sports cars and luxury vehicles often benefit the most from premium fuel because it can help maintain their engineered precision.

 

Premium vs. Standard Fuel

One of the main differences between premium and standard fuel lies in their octane ratings. Premium fuels, like Sunoco’s 91/93 or 94 Octane, are formulated to resist premature combustion (often called knocking) better than lower-octane fuels. This knocking can lead to engine damage over time and decrease performance, something no driver wants.

Premium fuel often contains special additives that can help keep your engine clean by reducing the buildup of carbon deposits. This cleanliness isn’t just about maintaining a spotless engine but ensuring it runs efficiently and effectively. 

At Sunoco, all fuels are TOP TIER™ and contain detergents, including our selection of premium fuels. 

 

The Advantages of Premium Fuel

Using premium fuel is essential for vehicles designed to operate on it, as it can help optimize performance and maintain engine health. High-performance engines, including turbocharged ones, rely on premium fuel's stability to avoid knocking. While some modern engines equipped with knock sensors can adjust to lower octane levels, this can compromise performance and fuel efficiency.

 

When to Switch to Premium Fuel

Deciding to switch to premium fuel will depend on a few key factors. Here are some practical situations where using premium fuel might be the right choice:

 

1. New Vehicle Purchase

If you've recently purchased a new car, check the owner's manual to see what the manufacturer recommends. Many new high-performance and luxury vehicles require premium fuel to ensure optimal engine performance and efficiency.

 

2. Upgrading Vehicle Performance

If you are modifying your vehicle for enhanced performance—such as tuning the engine or adding a turbocharger—switching to premium fuel can help you achieve and maintain improved performance.

 

3. Manufacturer Recommendations

Always adhere to the fuel recommendations found in your vehicle's owner's manual. Using the correct type of fuel is necessary for maintaining the health and efficiency of your engine, and failing to use premium fuel in cars that require it can lead to decreased performance and potential engine issues.

 

4. Experiencing Engine Knocking

If you notice your engine knocking or running rough, it might be a sign that your current fuel's octane rating is too low. If recommended in your vehicle's owner's manual, switching to a higher-octane premium fuel can help eliminate these symptoms by providing better combustion stability.

 

5. Seeking Improved Fuel Efficiency

In some instances, such as when a vehicle is towing a trailer or carrying a heavy load, switching to premium fuel may result in slightly better fuel economy. This is particularly true for vehicles designed to run on premium fuel but using regular gasoline.

 

Selecting the Fuel for Your Vehicle

Your vehicle’s owner’s manual is the ultimate guide for choosing the correct fuel. For cars requiring or recommending premium fuel, 94 Octane is essential to avoid engine knocking and maintain performance. Even for vehicles that allow flexibility, consistently using 94 Octane helps enhance stability, keep the engine clean, and reduce wear over time.

Selecting the right fuel isn’t just about meeting basic requirements—it’s about ensuring your car operates at its best. Choosing 94 Octane gives your engine the quality it needs to run smoothly, no matter your driving habits.

 

Making a Fuel Choice with Confidence

High-performance and turbocharged engines are built for premium fuels like 94 Octane, which provide the combustion stability they need to perform efficiently. For vehicles that can use either standard or premium fuels, 94 Octane offers additional benefits, such as minimizing engine deposits and ensuring smoother operation.

Choosing 94 Octane is a proactive way to protect your engine and extend its lifespan. Sunoco’s TOP TIER™ certified fuels are formulated to meet high standards, giving you confidence that your vehicle will run reliably and efficiently on every drive.